New Delhi: Amid a renewed global rise in COVID-19 cases, a novel Omicron subvariant, NB.1.8.1, has been identified through genomic surveillance at major U.S. airports. This variant carries spike protein mutations that may increase transmissibility and immune escape. However, current data do not suggest an increase in disease severity. Symptoms remain consistent with other Omicron strains—sore throat, dry cough, nasal congestion, headache, and fatigue. “We are also noticing mild gastrointestinal symptoms in some patients, particularly among elderly or immunocompromised individuals,” said Dr. Charu Dutt Arora, Consultant in Geriatrics, Palliative Care & Infectious Diseases at AmeriHealth, Asian Hospital, Faridabad.
Guidelines to follow amid the COVID-19 surge in India
In response, health authorities have reissued COVID-19 guidelines: mask mandates in indoor public spaces, renewed emphasis on hand hygiene, early testing for symptomatic individuals, and self-isolation. High-risk patients are advised to initiate antiviral therapy, such as Paxlovid, within five days of symptom onset. Booster vaccination with updated formulations remains crucial to prevent severe illness.
What is lower-grade hyperthermia?
Dr Arora went on to talk about another emerging clinical pattern – lower-grade hyperthermia, where body temperature hovers between 99.5°F and 100.9°F. This low-grade fever, often an early sign of infection, is driven by cytokine-mediated inflammation. “Lower-grade hyperthermia should not be dismissed, especially in older adults. It can be the earliest indicator of systemic viral activity,” Dr. Arora emphasised. Clinicians are advised to monitor temperature trends, oxygen saturation, and duration of symptoms carefully. If fever persists beyond five days, evaluation for secondary infection or inflammatory syndromes is warranted.
With evolving viral mutations, sustained public vigilance, updated vaccination, and clinical preparedness are essential in limiting the impact of emerging COVID-19 subvariants like NB.1.8.1
What are the signs of the new COVID-19 variant?
Dr AP Singh, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals, Kaushambi, listed the symptoms of the new COVID-19 variant.
The symptoms are similar to those of Omicron strains, i.e., mild, low-grade, prolonged fever, sore throat, tiredness, and occasional shortness of breath. Infections are mostly mild, but more data collection is required. Although existing Vaccinations are expected to offer protection, Public adherence to preventive measures like hand washing, mask-wearing in public places, detection of symptoms, and following official guidelines is also essential to controlling the spread.
Lower-grade hyperthermia refers to a mild but prolonged increase in body temperature, usually seen in people recovering from COVID-19. It may result from prolonged cytokine release, a temporary reset of the body’s internal thermostat, a persistent post-viral inflammatory response, or a secondary infection. While generally not severe, it requires attention.
It’s important to take adequate hydration, rest, and use antipyretics like paracetamol as needed. Monitor oxygen saturation regularly. If the fever does not resolve, consult a doctor’s opinion and perform basic investigations like complete blood count (CBC) or C-reactive protein (CRP) test. Medical evaluation is necessary if the fever lasts longer than seven days, exceeds 101°F, or occurs in spikes, is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, or confusion, or new symptoms like rash, severe weakness, or gastrointestinal symptoms are noted. Timely monitoring and follow-up can help prevent complications.
Lower-grade hyperthermia refers to a mild but prolonged increase in body temperature, usually seen in people recovering from COVID-19. It may result from prolonged cytokine release, a temporary reset of the body’s internal thermostat, a persistent post-viral inflammatory response, or a secondary infection. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
